Baseball Passings 2024

[Edgy MD]

Bird and May also shared a tenure setting up Rich Gossage with the comically unstable Howser/Michael/Lemon Yankees of 1980-81.

I will henceforth refer to this as the MayBird Era.

[Chad ochoseis]

Doug Bird, Royals closer pre-Quisenberry, 74.

His teammates nicknamed him "The Fidrych".

[Cowtipper]

Who was Fernando Valenzuela?

Fernando Valenzuela, a charismatic left-handed pitcher from Mexico, became an international sensation in 1981 when he won both the Cy Young and Rookie of the Year awards in his debut Major League season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His rise to stardom began with minor league success in Mexico before reaching the Dodgers, where his exceptional screwball pitch baffled hitters. His rookie season, known as "Fernandomania," saw him achieve a remarkable 8-0 start and led to him becoming a cultural icon, particularly among Los Angeles’ Latino community. Over the next decade, Valenzuela remained a top pitcher, known for his heavy workload and a distinctive upward glance during his windup. His intense usage, however, contributed to arm issues that slowed his performance by the late 1980s. He continued to play in both the U.S. and Mexico, earning numerous honors for his pitching and hitting. Valenzuela's contributions extended beyond the field; he was a Spanish-language commentator for Dodgers games, a coach for Mexico’s World Baseball Classic team, and was enshrined in several baseball halls of fame. In 2023, the Dodgers retired his iconic number 34, honoring his legacy and impact. He passed away in 2024 at age 63, following a battle with liver cancer.

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Fernando Valenzuela, nicknamed "El Toro," was a Mexican professional baseball pitcher who became a cultural icon, especially for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Valenzuela began his career in the Mexican leagues before joining the Dodgers in 1980, where he quickly gained attention with his unique pitching style, which included a screwball and an iconic upward gaze during his windup. His breakout year came in 1981, sparking "Fernandomania" as he led the Dodgers to a World Series victory and earned both the Cy Young and Rookie of the Year awards—a feat still unmatched. Valenzuela continued to dominate through the mid-1980s, becoming an All-Star six times and securing a historic contract. However, shoulder injuries eventually impacted his performance, and although he threw a no-hitter in 1990, he was released by the Dodgers in 1991. He went on to play for several other MLB teams and returned to pitch in Mexico before retiring. After his playing career, Valenzuela served as a Dodgers broadcaster from 2003 until his death in 2024, and in 2023, the team retired his No. 34. Known for his contributions to baseball and his cultural significance, he is remembered as one of the most successful Mexican-born players in MLB history.

More

Fernando Valenzuela, known as "El Toro," is remembered as a transformative figure in baseball and a cultural icon. Initially estranged from the Dodgers after his 1991 release, Valenzuela returned in 2003 as a Spanish-language radio commentator, later joining TV broadcasts in 2015. He also served as a coach for Mexico's World Baseball Classic teams and purchased the Tigres de Quintana Roo in 2017. Valenzuela's baseball legacy is defined by his record-setting achievements, earning him a place in the Hispanic Heritage Baseball Museum Hall of Fame and the Caribbean Baseball Hall of Fame. Despite falling short of Baseball Hall of Fame eligibility, his impact remains legendary, particularly among Los Angeles' Chicano community. His rise with the Dodgers in the 1980s helped heal tensions following the Dodgers' controversial acquisition of Chavez Ravine. Valenzuela’s popularity transcended cultural divides, with his games attracting record crowds and solidifying his place in Dodgers history. The team retired his No. 34 in 2023, one of only two non-Hall-of-Famers honored this way. Valenzuela also became a U.S. citizen in 2015, later serving as a special ambassador for citizenship. He passed away on October 22, 2024, from liver cancer at age 63, and the Dodgers plan to honor him with a uniform patch in 2025.

Who was Rudy May?


Rudy May was an American left-handed pitcher who played Major League Baseball from 1965 to 1983 for the Angels, Yankees, Orioles, and Expos, known for his live fastball and impressive curveball. Starting his baseball journey in Oakland, California, where he was a high school teammate of Hall-of-Famer Joe Morgan, May signed with the Minnesota Twins in 1962 before a series of trades landed him with the Angels. He debuted in 1965 with a notable 9-inning, one-run game. After stints in the minor leagues, May returned to the majors in 1969, ultimately moving to the Yankees in 1974, where he played until a 1976 trade sent him to the Orioles, and later, the Expos. In 1980, May re-signed with the Yankees and achieved a career-best ERA of 2.46, leading the American League. Over his career, he reached 15-win seasons three times and surpassed 200 innings in six seasons. After retiring in 1983, he worked as a Circle K store manager. An avid diver, he passed away from diabetes complications on October 23, 2024, at age 80, remembered for his contributions to MLB and his 1980 ERA title.

[Cowtipper]

Joey Jay died.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituar ... y-12014172

Who was Joey Jay?

Joey Jay was an American Major League Baseball pitcher who played from 1953 to 1966 for the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds. Known for his early career as a "bonus baby" — one of the first players who, by contract, had to be kept on the roster — Jay debuted at age 17, making him the first former Little League player to reach the majors. Early on, he pitched sparingly for the Braves, becoming more of a regular rotation member in 1959. A trade to the Reds in 1961 revitalized his career as he led the National League with 21 wins, helping the Reds capture the NL pennant and reaching his first All-Star team. In the World Series that year, Jay pitched a complete-game victory in Game 2, though the Reds ultimately fell to the Yankees. Jay matched his 21-win achievement in 1962, but heavy workloads took a toll, and he struggled in the following seasons. He returned to the Braves for his final MLB year in 1966 before retiring at age 31 with 99 wins, 999 strikeouts, and an ERA of 3.77. After baseball, Jay moved to Florida, where he became involved in various business ventures, including oil and transportation. Jay passed away on September 27, 2024, at 89, leaving a legacy as a pioneering young star and key figure in Cincinnati’s 1961 success.

Who was Doug Bird?

Doug Bird was an American Major League Baseball pitcher who played from 1973 to 1983, primarily known for his versatility as both a reliever and starter. Drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 1969, Bird was a key bullpen figure for the Royals, especially during their successful playoff runs from 1976 to 1978, where he achieved a 2.35 ERA in postseason play. Despite strong performances, he is most remembered for allowing a decisive home run to Thurman Munson in the 1978 American League Championship Series. Bird later played for the Philadelphia Phillies, where he participated in the historic 23-22 game against the Cubs in 1979, and for the Chicago Cubs, where he won his 1982 Opening Day start. He ended his MLB career with the Boston Red Sox in 1983, finishing with a 73-60 record, a 3.99 ERA, and 60 saves, the majority with Kansas City. Bird also played in the Senior Professional Baseball Association in 1989. He passed away on September 24, 2024, in Asheville, North Carolina, at the age of 74.

[Cowtipper]

Ray Semproch died.

https://www.vodrazkafuneralhome.com/m/o ... h/Memories

Who was Ray Semproch?

Ray Semproch, also known as Roman Anthony Semproch, was an American right-handed pitcher who played in Major League Baseball from 1958 to 1961 for the Philadelphia Phillies, Detroit Tigers, and Los Angeles Angels. Signed by the Phillies as an amateur free agent in 1951, he made his big league debut on April 15, 1958, against the Cincinnati Redlegs, following a successful season in the minors where he posted a 12-4 record and a 2.64 ERA with the Triple-A Miami Marlins. In his first major league game, Semproch earned a win in a three-inning relief appearance and went on to finish his rookie season with a 13-11 record and a 3.92 ERA. Despite leading the league in victories at mid-season, his performance declined in subsequent years. He struggled with asthma and finished the 1959 season with a 3-10 record before being traded to the Tigers, where he had limited success. Semproch was drafted by the Washington Senators in the 1960 Rule V Draft and later purchased by the Angels, appearing in only two games before concluding his MLB career on May 2, 1961. Over his career, he compiled a record of 19-21, a 4.42 ERA, and 156 strikeouts in 344 innings pitched. After retiring from baseball, he managed a bar in his brother's Italian restaurant and celebrated 50 years of marriage with his wife in 2007. Semproch passed away on October 27, 2024, at the age of 93.

Also, 1980s player Andy Rincon died in August 2023, but news of his passing didn't reach the masses until recently.

Who was Andy Rincon?

Andrew John Rincon was a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played three seasons in the majors, most notably with the St. Louis Cardinals. Born on March 5, 1959, in Monterey Park, California, Rincon had a successful high school career as a multi-sport athlete, earning recognition as a two-time All-CIF baseball player and the 1977 CIF Southern Section Player of the Year. He was drafted by the Cardinals in the fifth round of the 1977 MLB Draft and spent several years in the minors before making his major league debut in September 1980 at the age of 21. In his debut season, Rincon posted a 3-1 record with a 2.62 ERA across four games, followed by a similar performance in 1981, where he recorded a 3-1 record and a 1.77 ERA in five games. However, his promising career was cut short by a line drive injury from Phil Garner of the Pittsburgh Pirates, which fractured his arm and led to time on the disabled list. Despite this setback, he returned to the Cardinals for the 1982 season, contributing to their World Series-winning team, though he finished that year with a 4.72 ERA in 11 games. Rincon was released by the Cardinals in October 1983, and although he was signed by the Pittsburgh Pirates, he never returned to the majors. Throughout his minor league career, he compiled a 50-55 record with a 4.04 ERA from 1977 to 1989, including a no-hitter for the Hawaii Islanders in 1984. After retiring, he served as a coach for the Savannah Cardinals in 1990. Rincon passed away on August 28, 2023.

[Cowtipper]

Don Ferrarese died.

https://www.vvdailypress.com/story/news ... 060048007/

Who was Don Ferrarese?

Donald "Midget" Ferrarese, known for his small stature, was a professional baseball pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1955 to 1962, playing for the Orioles, Indians, White Sox, Phillies, and Cardinals. Born in Oakland, California, he started his career in 1948 with the Phillies’ minor league team and also played for the Oakland Oaks. After missing the 1951 and 1952 seasons for military service, Ferrarese debuted with the Orioles in 1955, initially as a reliever. His best season as a starter came in 1959 with the Indians, where he recorded a 5-3 record and a 3.20 ERA, allowing only 58 hits over 76 innings despite high walk numbers. His final MLB season, 1962, was his most effective as a reliever, posting a combined 3.27 ERA between the Phillies and Cardinals, outperforming the league average. Ferrarese’s career concluded with a 19-36 record, a 4.00 ERA, 350 strikeouts, and a .156 batting average, which included highlights like a three-double game in 1959 and a two-run homer in 1962. Though frequently traded, he remained a valuable player and later served as head coach at Victor Valley College. Ferrarese passed away on November 4, 2024.

Mel Nelson died in November 2021, per SABR. News of his passing didn't surface until recently.

Who was Mel Nelson?

Mel Nelson began his baseball career as an outfielder, hitting 27 home runs for the Fresno Cardinals in 1955, before transitioning to pitching in 1957. He went on to play parts of six seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily as a left-handed relief pitcher, appearing in 93 games for the St. Louis Cardinals, Los Angeles Angels, and Minnesota Twins. Nelson’s major contributions included three saves in 1965 with the American League champion Twins, though he did not pitch in the World Series that year, and two wins with the Cardinals in their 1968 pennant-winning season. He also pitched a scoreless inning in Game 6 of the 1968 World Series. Throughout his career, Nelson allowed 184 hits and 69 walks over 173⅔ innings, with 98 strikeouts and a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage. Following his playing career, Nelson became a respected scout, working for several MLB teams including the Indians, Dodgers, White Sox, A’s, Cardinals, Rockies, and Astros. He was instrumental in signing players such as Garett Gentry, Jason Hirsh, and Dmitri Young. Nelson passed away on November 26, 2021, though news of his death surfaced three years later in November 2024.

Ray Newman died in 2023. News of his passing had been circling for a while, but it didn't become "official" until recently.

Who was Ray Newman?

Ray Newman, a left-handed pitcher, played briefly in Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs in 1971 and the Milwaukee Brewers from 1972 to 1973. After missing the 1967 and 1968 seasons due to his U.S. Navy service, Newman returned to baseball but saw limited action, mostly as a reliever. He became known for commuting to Wrigley Field on his bicycle, a habit that once led to an accident preventing him from pitching that day, much to the frustration of Cubs manager Leo Durocher. This incident contributed to Newman's trade from the Cubs, and he was later traded from the Brewers to the Detroit Tigers at the 1973 Winter Meetings.

[Edgy MD]

Give a kind thought to Al "The Bull" Ferrara. Played for the Dodgers, Padres, and Reds from 1963 through 1971. A solid platoony hitter whose career spanned about as rough a National League era for hitters as there was. One of those Brooklyn-born players who lived the dream of signing with the Dodgers as a teenager, only to have them leave Brooklyn just before he signed. Won a couple of rings with them, though. Also teamed as a teenager with Bob Aspromonte, Joe Torre, and Joe Pepitone on the borough sandlots.

Like many of the 1960s Dodgers, (and Rams, for that matter) he parlayed his athletic glory into acting gigs. Alongside teammate Jim Lefebvre, he provided one of the more culturally sensitive portrayals on Gilligan's Island.




Spent some time in Gotham, also.

[G-Fafif]

Ferrara was the 10th consecutive strikeout for Tom Seaver on April 22, 1970 — and the Padre who accounted for San Diego’s lone run before Tom totally locKed in to defeat them historically, 2-1.

[G-Fafif]

1970 NL batting champ and write-in All-Star starter Rico Carty, 85.

[Cowtipper]

Bob Kelly died.

https://www.neilanfuneralhome.com/obitu ... d=33908362

Who was Bob Kelly?

Bob Kelly was an American Major League Baseball pitcher who played four seasons in the majors, primarily with the Chicago Cubs from 1951 to 1953, and later with the Cincinnati Redlegs and Cleveland Indians in 1958. As a rookie in 1951, Kelly achieved a 7-4 record. He was traded to the Reds in June 1953, missing the debut of Ernie Banks with the Cubs later that year. A durable pitcher in the minors, Kelly threw over 250 innings in both 1956 and 1957, winning 24 games in the latter season in the Southern Association. A standout collegiate player, Kelly pitched for Purdue University and Western Reserve University (now Case Western Reserve), where he remains the winningest pitcher from both schools as of 2008. He also led East Cleveland Shaw High School to a state title in 1944. Known for pitching in Puerto Rico during his career, Kelly was the last surviving player managed by Rogers Hornsby and Frankie Frisch. He passed away on November 27, 2024, in Old Lyme, Connecticut, at the age of 97.

Gail Henley died.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituar ... y-12107514

Who was Gail Henley?

Gail Henley was an American professional baseball player, manager, and scout whose career spanned over five decades. Born in Wichita, Kansas, in 1928 and raised in Los Angeles, Henley excelled in baseball at the University of Southern California, where he batted .400 as a sophomore for the 1948 national championship team. His professional playing career lasted from 1948 to 1961, though his time in Major League Baseball was brief, appearing in 14 games for the Pittsburgh Pirates during the 1954 season. Henley batted .300 in his limited MLB at-bats, hitting one home run and driving in two runs before being sidelined by an injury and falling out of favor with general manager Branch Rickey. He spent the remainder of his playing career in the minor leagues.

Henley transitioned to managing in the Detroit Tigers' minor league system from 1961 to 1966, later joining the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, where he worked as a scout and managed rookie-level teams during the 1970s and 1980s. Known for his success with the Lethbridge Dodgers in the Pioneer League, he led the team to championships in three of his four seasons as manager. He also scouted for the Kansas City Royals, San Diego Padres, and Tampa Bay Devil Rays, signing notable players like Ryan Henderson. Henley passed away on November 25, 2024, at the age of 96, leaving a legacy as a dedicated contributor to baseball at all levels.

Also, who was Rico Carty?

Rico Carty, a Dominican professional baseball player known as "The Beeg Boy" and "The Beeg Mon," was one of MLB's most dynamic hitters and personalities during his 15-year career (1963–1979). Renowned for his powerful bat and colorful demeanor, Carty excelled despite numerous setbacks, including injuries, illness, and clashes with teammates. He played for several teams, most notably the Atlanta Braves, where he won the 1970 NL batting title with a .366 average, earned a rare All-Star Game start as a write-in candidate, and set a Braves record with a 31-game hitting streak. Injuries and tuberculosis sidelined him for two full seasons, but he rebounded to remain a productive hitter, eventually thriving as a designated hitter in the American League. Carty also played winter ball in the Dominican Republic, where he was a national hero and set the league's career home run record. Beyond baseball, he contributed to humanitarian efforts in his home country. Inducted into the Caribbean Baseball Hall of Fame and the Braves Hall of Fame, Carty's legacy endures as one of the Dominican Republic's pioneering baseball stars. He passed away in 2024 at the age of 85.

Who was Al Ferrara?

Alfred John Ferrara Jr., known as "The Bull," was an American Major League Baseball player whose career spanned from 1963 to 1971. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1939, Ferrara balanced his youthful baseball aspirations with an impressive classical piano talent, even performing at Carnegie Hall before dedicating himself fully to baseball. Signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1958, he debuted in 1963 and contributed to the team during their successful 1960s run, including two World Series championships, though he did not play in those series. Ferrara's most productive seasons came in 1966 and 1967, when he showcased his hitting abilities and earned the title of "Dodger of the Year." Injuries hampered his career, and after a stint with the San Diego Padres as part of their inaugural roster, he closed his career with the Cincinnati Reds in 1971.

Beyond baseball, Ferrara appeared in popular television shows such as Gilligan’s Island and Batman, leveraging connections in Los Angeles' entertainment scene. After retiring from baseball, he worked in sales and construction before rejoining the Dodgers organization in a community relations role. A vibrant and engaging figure, Ferrara shared his experiences and advocated for youth education and drug prevention. Married twice and a father to one son, he spent his later years with longtime companion Kay Donno. Ferrara passed away from pneumonia in 2024 at the age of 84, leaving a legacy as a multifaceted athlete, entertainer, and community contributor.

[G-Fafif]

Bill Melton, 1971 AL home run champ, 79.

[MFS62]

Bill Melton, 1971 AL home run champ, 79.

RIP

Later

[Johnny Lunchbucket]

Bill Melton, 1971 AL home run champ, 79.

Had a baseball card that was a closeup profile dominated by the pinkish glow of his White Sox batting helmet. One of the most distinctive cards in my early collection

[Marshmallowmilkshake]

Is this the one? Love that 1974 Topps set!

[Johnny Lunchbucket]

That's the one!

[MFS62]

For what seemed like decades after Don Zimmer originally polluted the position I suffered from third base envy. And Melton was one of the players I pointed at and wondered, "Why can't we get one like him"?

Later

[Cowtipper]

Al Fitzmorris died.

https://www.mlb.com/news/al-fitzmorris- ... royal-dies

Who was Al Fitzmorris?

Alan James Fitzmorris was an American professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball from 1969 to 1978. Born on March 21, 1946, in Buffalo, New York, Fitzmorris was signed as a non-drafted free agent by the Chicago White Sox in 1966, before being selected by the Kansas City Royals in the 1968 MLB expansion draft. He enjoyed his most successful season in 1975, winning a career-high 16 games for the Royals. He continued to play for Kansas City until 1976, when he was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the expansion draft, but was soon traded to the Cleveland Indians. Fitzmorris played for Cleveland until 1978, when he was released and quickly signed by the California Angels. After his brief stint with the Angels, he retired from MLB and spent his final season in the minors with the San Diego Padres' Triple-A affiliate. Following his retirement, Fitzmorris remained active in the Kansas City community, supporting charitable organizations. He passed away on December 4, 2024, at the age of 78 after a long battle with cancer.

Merv Rettenmund died.

https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/mlb ... ts-1997330

Who was Merv Rettenmund?

Merv Rettenmund was a professional baseball player and coach who played 13 seasons in Major League Baseball. He achieved notable success, winning two World Series titles with the Baltimore Orioles in 1970 and the Cincinnati Reds in 1975. A standout early in his career, Rettenmund hit over .300 in his first few seasons, including a career-best .322 with 18 home runs for the Orioles in 1970. He was also recognized as a skilled pinch hitter later in his career. Rettenmund was initially drafted by the Dallas Cowboys but chose to pursue baseball, signing with the Baltimore Orioles in 1964. After a standout minor league season in 1968, he debuted in the majors in 1969. He played for the Orioles, Reds, San Diego Padres, and California Angels, ending his playing career in 1980. As a coach, Rettenmund worked with several MLB teams, including the Texas Rangers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, Atlanta Braves, and Detroit Tigers, serving as hitting coach for many years. He was also part of the Athletics' coaching staff during their 1989 World Series victory. In 2006, he returned to the Padres as hitting coach for a brief period. Rettenmund was inducted into the Ball State University Hall of Fame and was honored as a Distinguished Graduate. He passed away in San Diego on December 7, 2024, at the age of 81.

Also, who was Bill Melton?

Bill Melton, known as "Beltin' Bill," was a prominent American baseball player who had a successful decade-long career in Major League Baseball. Born on July 7, 1945, Melton played primarily for the Chicago White Sox, where he earned recognition as a powerful hitter, leading the American League in home runs in 1971 with 33. Melton made his MLB debut in 1968 and became the White Sox's starting third baseman in 1969. He had standout seasons in 1969, 1970, and 1971, hitting over 30 home runs in both 1970 and 1971. Despite his offensive prowess, Melton struggled defensively, particularly at third base, leading the league in errors multiple times. After a series of injuries, including a back issue in 1972, his performance declined. He was traded to the California Angels in 1975 and later played for the Cleveland Indians before retiring in 1977. Over his 10-season career, Melton hit 160 home runs and posted a .253 batting average. Following his playing career, he worked in real estate and later became a broadcaster for the White Sox, contributing as a pre- and postgame analyst for various networks. Melton passed away on December 5, 2024, at the age of 79 after a brief illness.

[G-Fafif]

Rocky Colavito, the epitome of Cleveland baseball for a generation, 91.

[MFS62]

Rocky Colavito, the epitome of Cleveland baseball for a generation, 91.

The teenage girls used to scream for him like he was a rock star.
RIP
Later

[Chad ochoseis]

Frank Lane : Rocky Colavito :: M. Donald Grant : Tom Seaver

RIP

[ashie62]

Rocky Colavito, the epitome of Cleveland baseball for a generation, 91.

Surprised he never became a Yankee. He was a Kansas City Athletic

Great talent

[Frayed Knot]

Rocky Colavito, the epitome of Cleveland baseball for a generation, 91.

Surprised he never became a Yankee.

He did. The Bronx-born Colavito played his final 39 games for the Yanx in the second half of 1968.
Great all-around athlete who possessed one of the legendary throwing arms from RF.

Birth name: Rocco Domenico Colavito
I think he was Irish.

[Marshmallowmilkshake]

Who was Merv Rettenmund?

Merv Rettenmund was a professional baseball player and coach who played 13 seasons in Major League Baseball. He achieved notable success, winning two World Series titles with the Baltimore Orioles in 1970 and the Cincinnati Reds in 1975. A standout early in his career, Rettenmund hit over .300 in his first few seasons, including a career-best .322 with 18 home runs for the Orioles in 1970. He was also recognized as a skilled pinch hitter later in his career. Rettenmund was initially drafted by the Dallas Cowboys but chose to pursue baseball, signing with the Baltimore Orioles in 1964. After a standout minor league season in 1968, he debuted in the majors in 1969. He played for the Orioles, Reds, San Diego Padres, and California Angels, ending his playing career in 1980. As a coach, Rettenmund worked with several MLB teams, including the Texas Rangers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, Atlanta Braves, and Detroit Tigers, serving as hitting coach for many years. He was also part of the Athletics' coaching staff during their 1989 World Series victory. In 2006, he returned to the Padres as hitting coach for a brief period. Rettenmund was inducted into the Ball State University Hall of Fame and was honored as a Distinguished Graduate. He passed away in San Diego on December 7, 2024, at the age of 81.

Sad to see this. I worked for the Flint, Mich. newspaper in the 1990s and Merv was a local hero. His brother Marv -- yes, Mervin and Marvin -- was a longtime coach in the Flint schools. They're both in the Greater Flint Sports Hall of Fame.

[Cowtipper]

Roberto Gomez died.

https://thespun.com/mlb/former-mlb-pitc ... dent-at-35

Who was Roberto Gomez?

Roberto Ezequiel Gómez Castillo (August 3, 1989 – December 8, 2024) was a Dominican professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the San Francisco Giants from 2017 to 2018. Signed by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2010, Gómez began his professional career in the Dominican Summer League and progressed through the Rays’ minor league system, earning recognition for his strong performances, including being named the Gulf Coast League Rays Player of the Year in 2011. Despite early success, his performance declined in later seasons, and the Rays released him in 2014. Gómez then joined the San Francisco Giants in 2016, making his MLB debut on September 5, 2017. His lone major league win came in April 2018 against the Los Angeles Dodgers, highlighted by a dramatic walk-off home run by teammate Andrew McCutchen. After leaving the Giants organization later that year, Gómez briefly signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2018, but his contract was voided due to medical concerns. Gómez tragically died in a car accident in Santiago, Dominican Republic, in December 2024 at the age of 35.

Also, who was Rocky Colavito?

Rocky Colavito (1933–2024) was a celebrated American baseball player, coach, and broadcaster, best known for his tenure as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1955 to 1968. Primarily associated with the Cleveland Indians, he was renowned for his powerful batting and exceptional throwing arm. Over his 14-year career, Colavito also played for the Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Athletics, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Yankees. A nine-time All-Star, he was a consistent power hitter, achieving over 20 home runs for 11 consecutive seasons and leading the league in home runs in 1959. He also made history as the first AL outfielder to complete a season without an error. Post-retirement, Colavito became a television commentator and coach and was honored as one of the Cleveland Indians' greatest players, earning a place in their Hall of Fame in 2006. His early years in the Bronx shaped his baseball aspirations, and he realized his dream when the Indians signed him at age 17. Colavito's career was marked by standout moments, including four consecutive home runs in a single game and his versatile contributions as both a hitter and occasional pitcher. His legacy endures as a symbol of baseball excellence and dedication.

More:

Rocky Colavito was one of the most powerful and beloved players of his era, known for his devastating slugging ability and an exceptional outfield arm. Debuting with the Cleveland Indians in 1955, he quickly established himself as a star, with standout seasons in 1958 and 1959, when he led the American League in home runs and slugging. His remarkable achievements included becoming the second player in AL history to hit four consecutive home runs in a game. However, his career was marked by controversial trades, most notably his 1960 trade to the Detroit Tigers for Harvey Kuenn, a move that outraged Cleveland fans and became infamous in baseball lore.

Paired with Tiger greats like Al Kaline and Norm Cash, Colavito continued his dominance, producing seasons with towering home run and RBI totals. After stints with teams such as the Kansas City Athletics and a celebrated return to Cleveland, his production began to decline, though he still managed to hit 30 home runs in 1966. Colavito briefly pitched in 1968, finishing his career with a perfect ERA over two pitching appearances. While his 374 career home runs and numerous accolades made him a fan favorite and an undeniable force during the 1960s, his shorter career and decline kept him just shy of Hall of Fame induction.

After retiring, Colavito served as a broadcaster and coach for the Indians and later settled in Pennsylvania, where he became a mushroom farmer. In 2006, he was inducted into the Cleveland Indians Hall of Fame, securing his legacy as one of the team's all-time greats.

[Cowtipper]

Gary Sutherland died.

https://obituaries.douglassandzook.com/ ... sutherland

Who was Gary Sutherland?

Gary Lynn Sutherland (1944–2024), nicknamed "Sudsy," was a professional baseball middle infielder who played 13 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1966 to 1978. Known for his defensive finesse, particularly in turning double plays, Sutherland led the National League in double plays turned as a second baseman in 1969. His career milestones include scoring the first run in Montreal Expos history and recording the first putout in an MLB game played in Canada. Sutherland played for seven MLB teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies, Montreal Expos, and Detroit Tigers, where he had his most productive seasons. A versatile player, he logged significant time at second base and shortstop while maintaining a .243 career batting average over 1,031 games. After retiring, Sutherland remained active in baseball as a scout and executive, notably serving as a special assistant to the general manager for the Los Angeles Angels from 1999 to 2011. His legacy is defined by his steady defense, adaptability, and dedication to the sport both on and off the field.

Also, 1950s MLBer George Perez died in 2022, it appears, though news of his passing didn't reach the masses until recently.

https://www.crescentavalleyweekly.com/o ... 2GcW391xqA

Who was George Perez?

George Thomas Perez was an American professional baseball pitcher who briefly played in Major League Baseball for the 1958 Pittsburgh Pirates. Born on December 29, 1937, in San Fernando, California, Perez had a promising start in the minors after signing with the Pirates in 1956. He won 28 of 39 decisions in his first two seasons, which earned him a spot with the Pirates in 1958. Perez made four appearances in the majors, all in relief, where he showed flashes of talent. Despite a rough outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he allowed inherited runners to score and gave up additional runs, Perez performed solidly in his other three games, allowing only two earned runs in eight innings. However, his MLB career was short-lived, and after his final appearance on May 6, 1958, he returned to the minors. Over the next few years, he continued to perform well, notably in 1959 with the Salt Lake City Bees, but arm troubles hampered his career. Perez retired from baseball in 1961 with a minor league record of 47-24 and a 3.41 ERA. After leaving the game, he worked in the auto repair business and resided in Palmdale, California. Perez passed away on March 22, 2022.

Dwain Anderson died in 2019, it appears, though news of his passing did not (officially) reach the masses until recently. It was rumored in autograph collecting circles that he'd died some time ago for a while.

https://www.baseball-almanac.com/player ... =anderdw01

Who was Dwain Anderson?

Dwain Cleaven Anderson, born on November 23, 1947, is a former professional baseball shortstop who played in Major League Baseball from 1971 to 1974. Anderson, a standout at El Cerrito High School, was signed by the Kansas City A's as an amateur free agent in 1965 at the age of 17. After several seasons in the minor leagues, he made his MLB debut in 1971 with the Oakland A's. During his brief time with the A's, Anderson showcased his skills, including a game-winning triple against the Milwaukee Brewers. In 1972, after being traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, Anderson initially played as a pinch hitter and defensive replacement, later hitting his only major league home run. However, his career was marred by injuries and a decline in performance. After a trade to the San Diego Padres in 1973, Anderson struggled at the plate and saw his playing time decrease. He was subsequently traded to the Cleveland Indians in 1974, where he spent most of his time in the minors before retiring. Throughout his career, Anderson appeared in 149 MLB games for four teams—Oakland, St. Louis, San Diego, and Cleveland—batting .254 with two home runs and 14 RBIs. He continued playing in the minors, where he was known for drawing walks and hit 15 home runs for Iowa in 1970.

Also, who was Rickey Henderson?

Rickey Nelson Henley Henderson, born on December 25, 1958, in Chicago, was a legendary American baseball player known as "Man of Steal" for his remarkable career as a leadoff hitter and base stealer. Over 25 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), he played for nine teams, most notably the Oakland Athletics, with whom he had four separate tenures. Henderson holds numerous MLB records, including career stolen bases (1,406), unintentional walks, and leadoff home runs. He was also the first player to steal over 100 bases in three different seasons. His 1982 season remains the record for single-season stolen bases with 130. An exceptional leadoff hitter, he was known for his high on-base percentage, power hitting, and stolen bases, which made him one of the most dominant and innovative players of all time. He won the American League MVP in 1990 and was a key player for World Series-winning teams in 1989 and 1993. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009 in his first year of eligibility. Henderson's playing style was marked by his aggressive baserunning and unorthodox batting stance, which contributed to his record-breaking career. He also had a colorful personality that endeared him to fans and teammates alike. Henderson played several years with the New York Yankees and set their franchise record for stolen bases, which was later surpassed by Derek Jeter. Despite controversies and eccentricities, his passion for the game and unparalleled skills on the field left a lasting legacy in baseball history.

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Rickey Henderson, widely regarded as the greatest base stealer in MLB history, played a remarkable 25 seasons in the major leagues. He holds the all-time records for stolen bases (1,406) and runs scored (2,295) while accumulating 3,055 hits, 297 home runs, and 1,115 RBIs. Over his career, Henderson maintained a .279 batting average, .401 on-base percentage, and .419 slugging percentage. In postseason play, he appeared in 60 games, including three World Series, and had impressive stats with a .284 batting average, 33 stolen bases, and .831 OPS. Despite a stellar career, Henderson remained highly engaged with the game well after his retirement, coaching with the New York Mets and maintaining his passion for playing despite declining years.

Henderson’s playing career ended in 2003 after a final game with the Dodgers, though he continued to play in independent leagues before finally retiring in 2007. Known for his eccentric personality, he often referred to himself in the third person and became a legendary figure both on and off the field. His Hall of Fame induction came in 2009, cementing his place as one of the greatest players of all time. Henderson’s legacy extends beyond his statistical achievements, as he became a cultural icon, inspiring both admiration and controversy. His personal life included a marriage to his high school sweetheart and three children. He passed away in December 2024, just shy of his 66th birthday, after a battle with pneumonia.

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Rickey Henderson, widely regarded as the greatest leadoff hitter in baseball history, had a career that spanned 25 seasons. Known for his impressive ability to steal bases, he holds numerous Major League Baseball records, including most career runs (2,295), stolen bases (1,406), and times caught stealing (335). Henderson's ability to lead off games with home runs is unparalleled, as he hit 81 lead off dingers. He also set single-season records for stolen bases, attempts, and times caught stealing in 1982. Throughout his career, Henderson's speed and power—evidenced by 297 home runs and 510 doubles—made him a unique player, despite the public’s mixed perception of his personality. Often speaking in the third person and known for his self-confidence, Henderson was not universally loved by sportswriters, though his remarkable statistics eventually earned him election to the Hall of Fame in 2009.

A standout player from his rookie season, Henderson stole 33 bases in 1979, making an immediate impact with the Oakland A's. He continued to set records and led the American League in steals 12 times. Over his career, he played for several teams, including the New York Yankees, Oakland Athletics, and Toronto Blue Jays, winning two World Series titles. He also earned an MVP award in 1990 and was a 10-time All-Star. Henderson’s career was not without colorful moments, such as his infamous decision to frame his first million-dollar paycheck instead of cashing it. Despite his self-promoting nature, he had an undeniable influence on the game, mentoring teammates like Don Mattingly and leaving a lasting legacy on baseball. His impact continued until 2005 when he helped lead the San Diego Surf Dawgs to a league championship before retiring. Henderson’s number 24 was retired by the Athletics shortly after his Hall of Fame induction, cementing his place as one of the game’s greats. He passed away in December 2024, just shy of his 66th birthday.

Who was Jack DiLauro?

Jack DiLauro, a former Major League Baseball pitcher, played for the 1969 World Series Champion New York Mets. After signing with the Detroit Tigers in 1963, DiLauro spent several years in their minor league system, where he twice won 14 games in a season. In 1968, he was traded to the Mets, making his major league debut in 1969. That year, DiLauro posted a solid 2.40 ERA, one of the best on the team, although he did not appear in the postseason. He pitched in 23 games for the Mets, primarily in relief, earning a 1-4 record with one save. After the season, DiLauro was selected by the Houston Astros in the Rule 5 Draft and pitched in 42 games for them in 1970. However, his performance was less impressive with the Astros, and after a brief stint with their minor league affiliate, he moved between several organizations, including the Padres and Braves, but never returned to the major leagues. After his baseball career, DiLauro worked in the sporting goods industry and as a retail liquidation consultant. He passed away on December 7, 2024, in Akron, leaving behind a wife and two sons, one of whom predeceased him.